Chairman and Chief Executive Councillor (CEC), LAHDC Kargil, Dr. Mohd Jaffer Akhoon, in the presence of Chief Secretary, UT Ladakh, Ashish Kundra (IAS), inaugurated the 5th LG Ice Hockey Tournament 2026 at the Ice Hockey Rink, Biamathang, Kargil, on January 12.

On the occasion, the CEC warmly welcomed the newly appointed Chief Secretary of UT Ladakh, Ashish Kundra, and expressed optimism about working in close coordination with LAHDC Kargil for the overall development of the region.

Addressing the gathering, Dr. Jaffer Akhoon highlighted that ice hockey is the traditional grassroots sport of Ladakh and is deeply rooted in the region’s culture. He emphasized that Ladakh is nationally and internationally recognized for its unique winter sports heritage, particularly ice hockey. The CEC urged authorities to consider Kargil as a host venue under the Khelo India initiative, assuring full cooperation along with all necessary logistical and administrative support from LAHDC Kargil and the district administration.

Dr. Akhoon further underlined the importance of sports in promoting physical fitness, discipline, teamwork, and holistic development among youth. He stated that sports play a vital role in positively engaging young people while nurturing leadership qualities and resilience. Concluding his address, he reiterated that through collective efforts and coordinated planning, Ladakh would continue to move forward on the path of sustainable and inclusive development.

Speaking on the occasion, Chief Secretary UT Ladakh, Ashish Kundra, lauded the efforts of the concerned departments in promoting winter sports, particularly ice hockey. Describing the sport as a unique experience, he noted that this was his first firsthand exposure to ice hockey, which left a lasting impression on him.

Kundra also appreciated the Indian Army for its dual role in safeguarding the nation’s borders while actively contributing to sports promotion and youth engagement in the region. He assured full support from the UT Administration for the development of winter sports infrastructure in Kargil, emphasizing that necessary steps would be taken to strengthen facilities and encourage wider participation.

The inaugural event was attended by CEC Dr. Mohd Jaffer Akhoon; Chief Secretary Ashish Kundra, IAS; Executive Councillor Kacho Mohd Feroz; Secretary Education Bhanu Prabha; Secretary, PHE, Rahul Sharma; directors of various departments; councillors of LAHDC Kargil; district officers; and a large number of spectators, sports enthusiasts, and local residents, who witnessed the opening of the tournament with great enthusiasm.